About the UW

Founded in 1861, the University of Washington is one of the world's most prestigious universities. The UW enrolls about 57,000 students each year and thrives as a center for groundbreaking research in numerous fields, including medicine, education, public affairs, aeronautics and business.

A World-Class University

The University of Washington is consistently rated one of the top institutions of higher learning. The UW is 10th in the U.S. News & World Report ranking of best global universities, and it’s been recognized by Reuters as the most innovative public university in the world.

The UW offers many areas of study, including more than 300 separate programs and over 600 degree options. A major research center, the University attracts more money in federal research grants than any other public school in the United States. It has been home to seven Nobel Prize winners and 16 MacArthur Fellows ("genius grant" recipients).